Germany has dispatched a frigate, the Hessen, to the Red Sea as part of an international mission aimed at securing shipping routes in the area, which have been threatened by Houthi rebel attacks. The European Union’s preliminary approval for European involvement in the mission marks an effort to protect one of the world’s busiest cargo routes, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, from disruptions caused by these attacks. The Hessen, equipped with advanced anti-aircraft and anti-missile systems, joins warships from the US, the UK, France, and Italy, already present in the region. However, the German government awaits official mandate from both the European Union and Germany’s Parliament to participate fully in the mission.
- A German warship, the Hessen, has embarked for the Red Sea to secure shipping routes threatened by Houthi rebel attacks.
- The European Union has given preliminary approval for European involvement in securing the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
- Houthi attacks have disrupted one of the world’s busiest cargo routes, raising concerns over potential damage to the global economy.
- US and UK warships have retaliated by targeting Houthi positions in efforts to neutralize the threat to shipping.
- The Hessen is equipped with advanced anti-aircraft and anti-missile systems for aerial defense.
- Germany awaits an official mandate from the European Union and its Parliament to fully participate in the mission.
- The EU mission, named “Aspis” (Greek for “shield”), aims to protect merchant vessels crossing the Red Sea.
- Not all 27 EU member states are on board with the mission, partly due to limitations in naval capabilities among some members.
- Germany’s participation is motivated by the economic impact of Houthi attacks on German business, including major shipping firms avoiding the Red Sea route.
- A vote by the foreign ministers of the European Union, scheduled for February 19, is required before the mission officially launches.
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